Record turn-out at Otley and Ilkley Remembrance parades

Record numbers of people gathered in Ilkley and Otley on Remembrance Sunday to honour those who lost their lives during past conflicts.

A parade was led from the Brook Street car park in Ilkley to the Memorial Gardens. Among those paying tribute were Bradford Lord Mayor Councillor Dale Smith and MP Kris Hopkins (Con, Keighley and Ilkley).

Ilkley parish council chairman, Councillor Heathcliffe Bowen, said: “The attendance was extremely good – it seems to be growing year on year at the parade and service, which I think is a sign of the times with our involvement with the army overseas.

“I thought the whole event was extremely well organised, including the parade, arranged by David Wood. The representation of MPs and councillors was also very good.”

Otley also experienced huge crowds at its Remembrance Day service. Residents held a two-minute silence in the memorial garden.

The first ceremony was followed by a parade led by the local branch of the Royal British Legion and ex-servicemen through the town to the Methodist Church.

The procession also included police and fire service members, councillors and other dignitaries, and assembled at Station Road at 2pm.

A Remembrance Service was then held at the Methodist Church, before the parade made its way to the Garden of Remembrance in Bondgate for the laying of wreaths.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) watched the parade and Remembrance service in Bramhope, which was followed by a service at Bramhope Methodist Church.

Mr Mulholland also took part in the annual parade and service at Otley Methodist Church, followed by the laying of wreaths in the Garden of Remembrance.

He said: “It is important to take the time to consider the sacrifice that so many gave and continue to give in order to protect our freedom.”

Burley’s service also saw an upturn in attendants, with every pew taken at the Methodist Church.

The service was attended by ex-servicemen and women, members of the Royal British Legion, Cubs and Brownies and members of the 1224 Wharfedale Squad Air Training Corps. The family of Flt Lt David Stead, who was killed in Iraq, were also present.

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